Direct ethanol fuel cell (DEFC) is a promising energy conversion device due to abundant resources of ethanol. The oxidation of ethanol, however is very slow and the reaction intermediates usually poison the catalyst surface (commonly platinum). These result in a very low efficiency of DEFC. In this project, novel composite materials will be developed to promote direct conversation of ethanol to carbon dioxide.
The students will review the literature and understand current status of ethanol oxidation reaction; design and synthesize novel nanomaterials for ethanol oxidation; characterize the morphology and evaluate activity of these catalysts; write reports. Candidates with lab experiences preferred.
-Literature review, report writing and presentation skills development.
-Communication and team work development.
-Lab skill development.